Thanksgiving is a day for gratitude and indulgent meals, but it’s also the leading day for home cooking fires in the United States. Deep-fried turkey, a popular centerpiece, has been linked to a rise in fire-related incidents, turning what should be a joyous occasion into a potential hazard.
Just the Facts:
• According to FEMA, turkey fryers are a significant fire risk, particularly when improperly used.
• Common hazards include fryers tipping over, spilling hot oil, and overheating, which can ignite fires.
• These incidents often lead to property damage, personal injuries, and emergency response calls.
Why It Matters: Fires not only endanger homes but also pose severe risks to personal safety. Burn injuries can mar what’s intended to be a festive day. Prevention is critical to ensuring Thanksgiving remains a time for family, not ambulance rides.
What You Can Do: You can avoid accidents with the following simple tips.
• Stay Level: Place turkey fryers on a flat, stable surface outdoors, well away from structures.
• Measure Carefully: Use just enough oil to submerge the turkey without spilling.
• Thaw Completely: Ensure the turkey is fully defrosted to prevent oil splatter.
• Watch the Heat: Monitor oil temperature and avoid overheating.
• Gear Up: Wear long gloves to protect against burns when lowering the turkey into the fryer.
B.T. Clark
B.T. Clark is an award-winning journalist and the Publisher of The Georgia Sun. He has 25 years of experience in journalism and served as Managing Editor of Neighbor Newspapers in metro Atlanta for 15 years and Digital Director at Times-Journal Inc. for 8 years. His work has appeared in several newspapers throughout the state including Neighbor Newspapers, The Cherokee Tribune and The Marietta Daily Journal. He is a Georgia native and a fifth-generation Georgian.
